Awards presented to youths who have contributed to development of Sultanate

Bandar Seri Begawan - The 7th National Youth Day was celebrated yesterday carrying a theme of 'Accomplished Youth the Hope of the Nation', and was organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

The ceremony was graced by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam at the Indoor Stadium, Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.

Also present were HRH Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, and HRH Prince Abdul Malik.

The event started with the mass recital of Surah al-Fatihah and a Doa Selamat. This was followed by an opening speech by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Hazair bin Hj Abdullah.

In his speech, he addressed this year's theme as a statement of the importance in producing youths who have a balanced state of physical and spiritual aspects.

"Cooperation programmes in the field of human capital development, balanced with secular and religious fields will be continued and enhanced, involving government and non-governmental agencies to come together and unite towards producing a generation of 'Syumul' youths in the hope for the nation's future," said the minister.

He also said that the mini-exhibition held at the Indoor Stadium showcases the youths engaging in Creative Industries, which is also the new economic sector, having great potential to contribute to the establishment of the national economy and employment.

With regard to the development of youth in the Sultanate, the Government of His Majesty always gives full attention through its continuous application of capacity development programmes, building infrastructure and facilities, as well as providing fiscal assistance.

National Youth Day also acts as a platform for the youth to hold special meetings in recognition of their efforts.

The aim of the day was to uplift youth movements; commemorate the youth; to gather the youth across the country in an assembly with meaningful activities; to provide opportunities to exchange views and opinions from different aspects for greater engagement; and to create stronger bonds among the youth.

The event also saw a 'Meritorious Youth Leader' award, 'Youth Association' award and 'Outstanding Youth' award presented to youths and youth leaders who have contributed to the Sultanate.

His Majesty consented to present the awards to the recipients, before touring the Creative Industry mini-exhibitions.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin